Qiaoguo in the shape of a phoenix. [Photo/Gansu Daily]

The Qixi Festival, also known as Chinese Valentine's Day, falls on Aug 29 — the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. In celebration, a unique "feast of qiaoguo" is taking shape in Xihe county, Longnan, Gansu province. 

Led by Dong Yuemei, a renowned local artisan specializing in fried qiaoguo, a traditional snack made from flour, a group of women have spent four days handcrafting 24 trays of exquisite qiaoguo offerings to honor the Weaving Maiden, a central figure in festival lore.

Each dough-based artwork is meticulously shaped by hand. A golden dragon sculpture features finely detailed scales, a phoenix appears poised for flight, and peonies bloom with layered petals — each symbolizing auspicious themes.

"These offerings for the Weaving Maiden embody our wishes for peace, health, and safety throughout the year," said Dong.

Each dough-based artwork is meticulously shaped by hand. [Photo/Gansu Daily]

As a representative practitioner of this intangible cultural heritage in Xihe county, Dong looks toward the future with both hope and urgency: "In five to ten years, we may no longer be able to continue this work. We sincerely hope more young people will learn and carry forward the culture of Qixi."

In the coming days, these symbolic offerings will be presented at Qixi rituals, serving as a cultural bridge between past and present. With skilled hands and devoted hearts, Dong and her fellow artisans are not only preserving an ancient craft but also safeguarding the living memory of Chinese cultural traditions.

Dong Yuemei and her fellow artisans showcase their exquisite qiaoguo offerings. [Photo/Gansu Daily]